Unam Socratic Society hosts the high school championship

Tunohole Mungoba
Ann-Adeva Njambali



The Socratic Society of the University of Namibia (Unam) kicked off its first event for the year by hosting a public speaking championship at the Unam main campus on 7 April. The aim of the event was to engage members of the public, particularly the youth. The mission of the society is to create a forum in which new ideas, built on reason, is encouraged to flourish in order to promote the development of philosophy in Namibia. The society was established with the support of part-time philosophy lecture, Basilius Kasera. Learners from St George's Diocesan College, Acacia High School, Concordia College and Khomas High School took part in both public speaking and debating segments of the competition. The competition had four rounds, all based on philosophical themed motions, and were moderated by the president of the society, Jonas Nekomba. The panel of judges consisted of experienced debaters and coaches. The debaters were all prepared for one unprepared theme for the two public speaking rounds. Motions were dealing with popular philosophical topics and theories such as the meaning to life, the existence of God and the existence of life after death. The debates were filled with riveting arguments by the enthusiastic, well-prepared participants. Participants got the chance to interact as well as be observed by the judges during lunch and small breaks throughout the competition. Certificates and medals were awarded to the winners for the first two debates and five best overall speakers. Closing remarks were made by the Paulus Kapepu, vice president of the Unam Socratic Society. Through the competition students were able to have first-hand experience with an audience, improve their public speaking, debating and interaction skills. It was a successful event as the learners all showcased their talents and critical thinking. The Unam Socratic Society will announce a national essay writing competition later this month, with more capacity building initiatives for other tertiary institutions to spark a greater interest in Philosophy.

*Ann-Adeva Njambali is a third-year political science student at Unam.